Step-by-Step: How to Check the Air Pressure in Your ATV Tires
When it comes to riding your ATV, air pressure matters. The level of air pressure in your ATV tires doesn’t just determine how pleasant your ride is—although it certainly plays a role. It’s also a safety factor. Having too much air pressure, too little, or even an uneven distribution can lead to huge risks, such as losing control of your vehicle. Don’t believe us? Read your manual!
Thankfully, maintaining the pressure in your tires is fairly easy. For new ATV riders (or those who are just now getting into the do-it-yourself maintenance), Gator Sports has put together this easy, step-by-step process on how to check and maintain each tire for optimal safety, riding pleasure, and tire longevity.
Step One: Make Sure You’re Equipped for the Job
In order to check the air pressure in your ATV tires, you have to have the right tools. In this case you’ll need an air pressure gauge and a compressor. If you don’t have the right tools, you can stop by our Gator Sports location to purchase them. Depending on the brand and quality of your air pressure gauge, you are probably looking at about $10.00.
A compressor is more expensive. They typically can range anywhere between $150 and $800+ for a kit. However, keep in mind that you can also pay to use a compressor using one of the quarter machines at your local gas station.
Step Two: Determine Your ATV Tires’ Current PSI
Use your air pressure gauge to determine the current PSI of your tires. Don’t just check one tire and assume all the rest are the same. Be thorough and check all four tires so you can determine how much additional pressure you may need to add later on.
But how do you determine the right PSI? After you check your current tire pressure using the air pressure gauge, step three will guide you through the process of determining your tires’ specific PSI requirements.
Step Three: Determine the Appropriate PSI for Your Tires
You never want to assume the best PSI for your ATV’s tires. The number can vary from vehicle to vehicle, so you always want to check the recommended range first. To determine that, you’ll want to whip out your Owner’s Manual. Every ATV brand will specify the recommended PSI within the manual. Simply read the table of contents to locate it.
Step Four: Fill Your Tires to the Recommended PSI Using a Compressor
Once you’ve determined the appropriate PSI, you can compare your current tires’ air pressure to the recommended level to determine whether your tires need air. If the answer is “yes,” use the compressor to fill them. Most compressors should have a gauge that will tell you the tire’s PSI as you fill it. However, if it doesn’t you can use your air pressure gauge to check your tires after you’ve filled them. Be careful not to stray beyond the recommended PSI, or too far below it, as this can impact the quality of your ride, and its safety.
Additional Tips for Checking the Air Pressure in Your ATV Tires
An ATV Maintenance best practice is to check the air pressure in your tires at least once a month. However, if there is a cold spell in your area or the temperature drops significantly overnight, check them again before taking your ATV out for a spin. Cold weather can significantly decrease the pressure in your tires. It’s also good to check your PSI before each ride, just to ensure your safety before you head out—especially if you’re planning on a long ride.
If you have any questions about your ATV tires, ATV maintenance, or if you’re in the market for a new vehicle, stop by Gator Sports in LaBelle! We’re here to make sure your vehicle runs smoothly, and that you enjoy the ride!